Pune, 26th June 2026: Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has decided to tighten regulations on private water tankers to prevent overcharging and improve transparency in water distribution amid the city's ongoing water shortage.
The decision was taken during the Standing Committee meeting after concerns were raised about private tanker operators charging residents nearly three times the official rates.
Reports revealed that tankers filled at PMC water filling centres for ₹735 to ₹1,156 were being sold to citizens for as much as ₹2,500 to ₹3,000, leading to widespread complaints.
Taking serious note of the issue, Standing Committee Chairman Shrinath Bhimale directed the civic administration to prepare a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to regulate tanker operations.
The civic body has been asked to provide detailed information on tanker numbers, filling station capacity, official rates, driver qualifications, GPS facilities, online booking systems, accident records, and water quality monitoring.
Under the new system, all tankers will be required to display official rate charts and install GPS devices, allowing citizens to track them through a mobile application. Online booking, a helpline, and a 'first request, first supply' system will also be introduced.
The SOP will also focus on safety and water quality, including driver medical checks, training, mandatory vehicle safety equipment, regular water testing, and strict action against violators, while ensuring priority water supply to essential services like hospitals, schools, police stations, and fire stations.